The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) has reported “significant advancements” across all five areas in its recently launched strategy to combat highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) or bird flu.
Across the US since February 26, wholesale egg prices have dropped nearly 50%. The New York wholesale egg price, which peaked at $8.53 per dozen, has steadily declined to $4.08 as of March 19.
The USDA has secured new egg import commitments from Turkey and South Korea, with discussions ongoing with other countries to further expand supply in the short term.
Additionally, US shell egg exports have declined by 8%, ensuring more eggs remain in the domestic market to help stabilise prices.
With a new strategy in place for around a month to curb bird flu, US secretary of agriculture, Brooke Rollins said that egg prices are “falling” and farmers are “getting the relief they need”.
“USDA is making targeted investments and driving innovation to keep our food supply strong and affordable —delivering real results for American families and producers,” Rollins said.
USDA has expanded biosecurity assessments to commercial poultry producers nationwide, prioritising egg-laying facilities in top-producing states. More than 130 facilities have undergone assessments in 2025.
To help prevent further outbreaks, USDA now offers two free, voluntary biosecurity assessments: one focused on wildlife risk mitigation and another on general biosecurity improvements
Additionally, all farms affected by bird flu must complete a biosecurity audit before restocking flocks. USDA is covering up to 75% of costs for the highest-risk biosecurity improvements.
To provide financial relief and support faster repopulation, USDA increased the indemnity rate for layer hens by 2.41x on February 27, raising compensation to $16.94 per bird.
The USDA has invested $100 million in bird flu research and vaccine development. Funding will be awarded through a competitive process, with priority given to priority given to certain projects, such as those that explore vaccine candidates.
